In the digital age, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and social media platforms like Instagram has dramatically reshaped how people consume information, express themselves, and interact with the world around them. While these technologies offer convenience and connectivity, they are increasingly being blamed for a decline in critical thinking and interpersonal depth.
This concern is echoed by social commentators and psychologists alike, who argue that constant exposure to algorithmically curated short-form content such as Instagram Reels and overreliance on AI tools may be undermining our cognitive faculties. With users choosing quick entertainment over deep thought, and digital assistants now performing many intellectual tasks, a cultural shift toward cognitive apathy may be unfolding silently.
Cultural critics point to a surge in ‘cogging’—a term derived from the idea of people functioning like passive cogs in a machine, rather than active contributors to society’s intellectual or creative progress. The heavy dependence on AI for tasks such as writing, decision-making, and creative ideation has sparked questions about the future role of human agency in knowledge creation.
Moreover, the addiction to short-form video formats on platforms like Instagram and TikTok has been linked to shorter attention spans and a reduced capacity to process complex information. Studies suggest that the brain’s dopamine reward system becomes wired to seek out rapid and constant stimuli, making slower, more reflective tasks—like reading long texts or engaging in meaningful conversation—less appealing.
“In a world dominated by scroll culture and digital shortcuts, there is a real risk that we are trading depth for convenience,” said Dr. Anjali Mehta, a behavioral psychologist based in New Delhi. “We shouldn’t be proud of a society where originality is declining and human interaction is becoming less engaging.”
While technological progress is not inherently negative, experts suggest a recalibration of how and when we use these tools. This includes digital literacy initiatives, promoting mindful consumption, and reinvigorating education systems with a focus on critical thinking, creativity, and interpersonal skills.
The ‘endgame’ of current trends remains unclear, but the growing discourse surrounding the cultural byproducts of AI and social media underscores an urgent need for reflection. As tools become smarter and content more viral, individuals and communities must reevaluate what it means to be intelligent, creative, and truly human in the digital age.
Source: https:// – Courtesy of the original publisher.
